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February 27, 2005 Record-Eagle/Josh Biggs Jacqui Schleuter, of Suttons Bay, rides a bi-ski, while volunteer Mark Evans of Traverse City follows her. Northern Michigan Adaptive Sports hosts its final downhill ski event this weekend, teaching handicapped skiers and snowboarders how to overcome their challenges on the slopes. Disabilities don't stop skiersMost enjoy many other sports as wellByRecord-Eagle staff writer THOMPSONVILLE - John Johnson was in a snowmobile accident nine years ago that left him unable to use his legs. But that didn't stop him from getting back on the snow, this time on skis. Johnson skied Saturday at Crystal Mountain with help from Northern Michigan Adaptive Sports, a nonprofit organization devoted to getting people with disabilities into outdoor activities. "It's just fun to get out on the hill," Johnson said. "You meet a lot of nice people helping you out." Ann Reichert, a physical therapist for Munson Medical Center, which sponsors the adaptive sports program, said anyone with a physical disability can participate. The group sponsors five ski outings each winter with help from Crystal Mountain and dozens of volunteers. Reichert began volunteering with the program as an extension of her work in physical rehabilitation. "You work with someone and you want to take them beyond the hospital experience," Reichert said. Those who came out Saturday included a 78-year-old woman - who skied all her life until she had a stroke and needed help to get back on the slopes - and a young boy who has been disabled since birth. "Skiing with this group is a great equalizer," said Alex Cullen, of Leelanau County. "Just to be able to get out and enjoy a sport and have a good time." Cullen didn't ski before she was disabled, but now skiing is just one in a long list of sports that take up her time. Through Northern Michigan Adaptive Sports, Cullen, who uses a wheelchair to get around, participates in more sports than many adults - she climbs trees, kayaks, water skis, rides horses, cross-country skis and hand cycles. "I think that most people don't realize that just about any sport can be adapted and enjoyed by someone with a disability," Cullen said. "We're always looking for new people to come out and join us."
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